Over the past number of years, drug treatment facilities have adopted new approaches to help combat substance abuse. One of the most important approaches is the development of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). In combination with therapy, MAT can help newly recovering addicts experience lasting recovery. If you are looking for drug treatment for yourself or a loved one, the benefits of medically assisted treatment can give you the edge you need to get and stay clean. The following are some benefits of MAT.
MAT Helps Ease Withdrawal Symptoms During Detoxification
With the use of medications such as Vivitrol, medically assisted treatment can help reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. In turn, the cravings associated with these withdrawal symptoms will also decrease. Medically assisted treatment can be a great asset in early recovery, and it can help newly recovering addicts become physically and psychologically stable enough to enter intensive drug treatment.
MAT Decreases the Chance of Relapse
The benefits of MAT can also be seen regarding relapse. It is estimated that 90% of people in recovery will have one relapse episode within the first four years of sobriety. While relapse is a reality in sobriety, it can have devastating consequences on the newly recovering addict. Medically assisted therapy can be a huge help as part of a patient’s outpatient therapy program. By weaning the addict off a substance and helping to re-establish normal brain functioning, the patient can learn healthy coping techniques when dealing with craving and urges to use.
MAT Can Help Save a Life During an Overdose
Despite the best efforts of an addict to work a program of recovery, they can slip back into old habits. In the worst-case scenario, a person can overdose on their drug of choice and can be fighting for life. Over the past few years, drugs such as Narcan have been administered by emergency workers and police to reserve the effects of an overdose. Fast acting and with its’ effects lasting up to 90 minutes, medically assisted treatment with drugs like Narcan can help stabilize people to the degree the can receive the help they need.
Would You Like to Learn More About Medically-Assisted Treatment?
MAT is an emerging new tool in the fight against drug addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and would like to know more about how medically assisted treatment can be of benefit, call Comprehensive Wellness Centers today. Our experienced team of professionals can explain the positive benefits of MAT and how it can be a part of your individual drug treatment plan. Call CWC right now!
